Biology A Level

What's covered?

What causes disease? What is a heart attack, or a genetic fingerprint? Is evolution scientific reality or 'just a theory?' Could you breed a bean plant that tastes of roast beef or chocolate, and if so, should you? How does your immune system work? Are all organisms related to each other, even humans? Will dementia ever be curable? These are some of the questions that you might encounter when studying Biology at A Level.

A Level Biology deals with a variety of life processes including: biochemistry, cell biology, evolution and biodiversity, physiology, immunity and disease, neurology, genetics, ecology and homeostasis, together with detailed study of the vital processes that underpin all life respiration and photosynthesis. This course relies heavily on a clear understanding of the biochemical processes that underpin living systems.

What do you need?

To study a programme of 3 A Levels students must have a minimum of 5 grades 9-4 at GCSE, which should ordinarily include English and Maths at grade 4 or above.

For a mixed programme of A Levels and BTEC Level 3 courses students must have 5 grade 9-4 at GCSE which may include 1 BTEC and either GCSE English or Maths at grade 4 as appropriate for chosen courses.

Additional Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Maths and a Grade 6 in GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Biology

How you are assessed

Two externally assessed papers of two hours and 15 minutes, and one of one hour and 30 minutes, all in the summer of the second year. There is also a compulsory practical endorsement carried out in lessons throughout the course to provide you with vital experimental and analytical skills.

How Long?

2 Years

What could this lead to?